Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, a member of BNP’s Standing Committee, said the party will work to address the new additional tariff policy imposed by the United States and will offer coordinated support to the government on this matter.
He made the remarks on Tuesday (July 15) afternoon after a meeting with business leaders at Serena Hotel in Banani, Dhaka.
Amir Khasru said, “It is not just about $8 billion worth of exports to the US; around 1.5 to 1.6 million people’s employment is also linked to this. The impact will affect the economy, industries, and employment. We are going through a difficult time, so if this is not properly resolved, everyone will suffer losses.”
He added that the US tariff issue also involves security and political aspects. For the sake of the country’s interests, a united effort is needed to solve the problem. No one can handle it alone; all must work together in a coordinated manner.
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He further stated that exporting products to the US with a 35% tariff will be difficult. Compared to India and Vietnam, having a higher tariff rate will have adverse effects. Under these circumstances, the party will urge the government to take initiatives.
Business leaders have called for stronger negotiations, and BNP has also advised them. Discussions are still ongoing.
In response to a question, he said the tariff issue involves many security and policy matters that are not yet fully understood. However, BNP is not in favor of losing such a major market like the US. The impact will affect the country’s economy and people’s livelihoods. Therefore, the party wants to cooperate with the government to reach a fair solution.
At the meeting, alongside Amir Khasru, BNP’s acting chairman’s advisor Mahadi Amin and organizational secretary Shama Obaid were present.
